Unconventional background, uniquely applied.

Phil ShawProfile & Resume

I have served in the military, healthcare/science, counter-human-trafficking intelligence, investigative journalism, and software development. Those roles shaped a practical skill base, strong work ethic, and a first-principles approach to complex problems.

8+
years military service
5
professional domains
100%
first-principles focus
Phil Shaw
Adaptive strategic operator
Analysis • Software • Investigations
Profile

A cross-domain background built for complex environments.

Analytical and strategic problem solving

First-principles reasoning from causes to outcomes

Probabilistic decision-making rather than rigid absolutes

Fast learner with structured and creative instincts

Strategic planning with high adaptability under pressure

Experience

Military discipline, scientific method, intelligence practice, and modern software.

Military
  • Infantry & Reconnaissance
  • Counter-terrorist operations
  • Special Operations Forces — New Zealand Special Air Service (NZSAS)
  • Visual tracking, mountain warfare, patrol medicine, and instruction
Intelligence Systems & Analysis
  • Built intelligence capability for countering human trafficking
  • Developed intelligence-indicator information management software
  • Identified and investigated child sexual exploitation
  • Conducted transnational and regional human-trafficking investigations
Health Science
  • Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science
  • Practiced in Chemical Pathology / Biochemistry
Information Technology & Software
  • JavaScript, TypeScript, HTML, CSS, React, Next.js; some Python and C++
  • Firebase, Google Cloud Platform, Compute Engine, and Google APIs
  • PostgreSQL, GraphQL, MongoDB, Apollo Server, Node services
  • AI API integrations including ChatGPT and DALL-E
  • Micro-controller integrations with Raspberry Pi, Arduino, HTTP services, and React interfaces
Communication & Leadership
  • Public speaking and science communication
  • Videography, creative non-fiction writing, and oral presentation
  • Business development, operational strategy, and policy development
Career

In detail, compressed into a modern timeline.

New Zealand Army

Eight years across infantry, reconnaissance, counter-terrorist capability, and NZSAS.

Medical Laboratory Science

Completed BMLSc at the University of Otago and practiced as a hospital scientist.

Counter-trafficking intelligence

Built open-source, forensic, and human-intelligence workflows for identifying exploitation.

Operation People

Focused on building capability and investigating censorship during the COVID-19 period.

Current work

Software development, political-trend research, systems analysis, and video production.

Interests

The wider lens.

Early New Zealand history
Totalitarian systems, democratic resilience, and freedom of expression
Alpine sports and film making
Contact

Send Phil a message.

Use this form to get in touch.